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The Contractor: How I Landed in a Pakistani Prison and Ignited a Diplomatic Crisis
A lot has been written about the time contractor Raymond Davis spent in a Pakistani jail in 2011. Unfortunately, much of it is misleading—or downright false—information. Now, the man at the center of the controversy tells his side of the story for the very first time. In The How I Landed in a Pakistani Prison and Ignited a Diplomatic Crisis, Davis offers an up-close and personal look at the 2011 incident in Lahore, Pakistan, that led to his imprisonment and the events that took place as diplomats on both sides of the bargaining table scrambled to get him out. How did a routine drive turn into front-page news? Davis dissects the incident before taking readers on the same journey he endured while trapped in the Kafkaesque Pakistani legal system. As a veteran security contractor, Davis had come to terms with the prospect of dying long before the January 27, 2011 shooting, but nothing could prepare him for being a political pawn in a game with the highest stakes imaginable. An eye-opening memoir, The Contractor takes the veil off Raymond Davis's story and offers a sober reflection on the true cost of the War on Terror.
271 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 27, 2017
59 people are currently reading
799 people want to read
About the author
Raymond Davis
62 books6 followersRAYMOND J. DAVIS is a forensic scientist with over 30 years of experience in both private and government crime laboratories. He holds a degree in Chemistry from CSU, Sacramento. He is the past President and former Editorial Secretary of the CACNews, the quarterly publication of the California Association of Criminalists. Raymond also teaches forensic and CSI experts the skills to Survive and Thrive in the Courtroom . Raymond and his wife, Birgitta, make their home in the Pacific Northwest.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
December 27, 2024
What a terrific read! The Contractor was well written and grabbed my attention from the very beginning. I'm not aware of Raymond Davis's 2011 incident despite it being covered everywhere in the news. I'm glad to receive this opportunity to hear the story from the man himself.
Raymond Davis is a veteran and a private security contractor with the CIA. On January 27, 2011 he shot and killed two men in Lahore, Pakistan. What went wrong on a seemingly normal drive?
The Pakistanis charged Davis with double murder. The public wanted him to hang. Was Davis protected by diplomatic immunity?
This was intense especially if you don't know the details (like me). The two men killed, who are they actually? And Davis? A lot of smoke and mirrors. Reads just like a spy thriller.
The Contractor was a great listen, narrated by Rob Shapiro. This could've been a five star audiobook if it had two narrators with a female voice for Davis's wife. I often get confused for a bit listening to her chapters.
Thank you, Brilliance Audio and Netgalley for the ALC.
Published Dec 24 2024.
7H 33M
Raymond Davis is a veteran and a private security contractor with the CIA. On January 27, 2011 he shot and killed two men in Lahore, Pakistan. What went wrong on a seemingly normal drive?
The Pakistanis charged Davis with double murder. The public wanted him to hang. Was Davis protected by diplomatic immunity?
This was intense especially if you don't know the details (like me). The two men killed, who are they actually? And Davis? A lot of smoke and mirrors. Reads just like a spy thriller.
The Contractor was a great listen, narrated by Rob Shapiro. This could've been a five star audiobook if it had two narrators with a female voice for Davis's wife. I often get confused for a bit listening to her chapters.
Thank you, Brilliance Audio and Netgalley for the ALC.
Published Dec 24 2024.
7H 33M
July 3, 2017
No doubt, it’s a well-written book, but there are few points to be noted, In Ray's words:
He worked for the American Consulate in Lahore, but no one from the U.S. Govt. could explain/verify his job title to the Pakistani Govt.
Ray complained a lot about Pakistani Judicial System, the same system which acquitted him in just 49 days for killing three people.
He also wrote and whined about the powerful ISI, the same ISI that helped him in finding a way in the Pakistan's law to get him out of there in just 49 days. The same ISI that kept their own people in jail so they can release him.
Also, according to him, he was never tortured in the Pakistani jail and the officers always speak to him politely. I would question Ray, what if an Asian kill three American citizens in public, how the US police will treat that asian?
In summary, I think he should be thankful to Pakistani Govt., people, Police, and ISI for going out of their way to close his case in just 49 days. Again, just 49 days for killing three people.
He worked for the American Consulate in Lahore, but no one from the U.S. Govt. could explain/verify his job title to the Pakistani Govt.
Ray complained a lot about Pakistani Judicial System, the same system which acquitted him in just 49 days for killing three people.
He also wrote and whined about the powerful ISI, the same ISI that helped him in finding a way in the Pakistan's law to get him out of there in just 49 days. The same ISI that kept their own people in jail so they can release him.
Also, according to him, he was never tortured in the Pakistani jail and the officers always speak to him politely. I would question Ray, what if an Asian kill three American citizens in public, how the US police will treat that asian?
In summary, I think he should be thankful to Pakistani Govt., people, Police, and ISI for going out of their way to close his case in just 49 days. Again, just 49 days for killing three people.
June 3, 2020
At the start of 2011,Raymond Davis was the most well known name in Pakistan.
No one in Pakistan,who was alive at the time of the infamous Raymond Davis affair,is ever likely to forget his name,thanks to the media frenzy,the likes of which have seldom been seen in this country.
In 2011,Raymond Davis shot two Pakistanis claiming he was acting in self defence.His colleagues,coming to rescue him killed a third,uninvolved person, as they sped down the wrong side of the road and hit him.(This whole sequence was used in an espisode of the TV show,Homeland).
Pakistan's innumerable 24/7 news channels soon began running this news item non stop on a loop,and would continue to do so till Davis remained in the country for another 49 days.
The incident brought Pakistan's already fragile relationship with the US to a new low.Was he just a contractor,or was he working for the CIA ? Pakistan's government faced increasing US pressure for his release as well as strident calls by domestic groups for his execution.It was the stuff which thrillers are made of.
President Obama insisted that Davis enjoyed diplomatic immunity from persecution.That was quite an ingenious argument.John Kerry made trip after trip to Pakistan for his release.Pakistan's government found itself subject to a lot of arm twisting from the US.The foreign minister resigned.
On his part,Davis insisted that he had done "nothing wrong" and that he was "not going to lose any sleep" over killing those men.Finally,a way was found to get him released by paying over two million dollars in "blood money" to the families of the victims.Some of them may even have been coerced to pardon him.
Controversial figure that he remains,Davis's account of how he shot those men, his interrogation,court appearances and jail time still makes for an interesting read.
Postscript : Raymond Davis went back to the US,and faced another assault case,this time against a US citizen.
No one in Pakistan,who was alive at the time of the infamous Raymond Davis affair,is ever likely to forget his name,thanks to the media frenzy,the likes of which have seldom been seen in this country.
In 2011,Raymond Davis shot two Pakistanis claiming he was acting in self defence.His colleagues,coming to rescue him killed a third,uninvolved person, as they sped down the wrong side of the road and hit him.(This whole sequence was used in an espisode of the TV show,Homeland).
Pakistan's innumerable 24/7 news channels soon began running this news item non stop on a loop,and would continue to do so till Davis remained in the country for another 49 days.
The incident brought Pakistan's already fragile relationship with the US to a new low.Was he just a contractor,or was he working for the CIA ? Pakistan's government faced increasing US pressure for his release as well as strident calls by domestic groups for his execution.It was the stuff which thrillers are made of.
President Obama insisted that Davis enjoyed diplomatic immunity from persecution.That was quite an ingenious argument.John Kerry made trip after trip to Pakistan for his release.Pakistan's government found itself subject to a lot of arm twisting from the US.The foreign minister resigned.
On his part,Davis insisted that he had done "nothing wrong" and that he was "not going to lose any sleep" over killing those men.Finally,a way was found to get him released by paying over two million dollars in "blood money" to the families of the victims.Some of them may even have been coerced to pardon him.
Controversial figure that he remains,Davis's account of how he shot those men, his interrogation,court appearances and jail time still makes for an interesting read.
Postscript : Raymond Davis went back to the US,and faced another assault case,this time against a US citizen.
June 30, 2017
Low-key and largely biased in terms of the tone of language used. The guy perhaps really wanted an action movie out of it and had this book to make up for that.
July 4, 2017
The Face Behind The Headline
As a product of the War on Terror in Pakistan, the name ‘Raymond Davis’ evokes a feeling similar to ‘Satan’ or ‘the Devil’ on a subconscious level in me. I like to think I am far too mature to believe he is actually the devil or anything, and this reaction really comes from instinct rather than belief.
Can you really blame me though? When the news broke across Pakistan that an alleged CIA operator has shot and killed two Pakistanis inside Pakistan, for many of its population it felt like the perfect metaphor for what they perceived to be the larger role America has played in Pakistan during the ‘war on terrorism’; an arrogant refusal to respect our sovereignty in pursuit of its own selfish interests. ‘Raymond Davis’ became a symbol of American imperialism, and probably one of the most infamous persons in the country’s history. He was the ultimate villain in Pakistan for a solid portion of my late childhood.
So you can understand why most reviews for this book can be biased, whether from Pakistanis or Americans. I will give my honest take on the book, both as a pure reading experience and potential political insight.
First of all, my interest in the book was partly based on the expectation (aroused by reports on news and social media) that the book had exposed the political backchannel in the incident and the various personalities involved. Good ol’ political intrigue. However, although there are a few passages and paras that indulge in that, this is not a book isn’t much concerned about it. There a few interesting tidbits about the relationship between the CIA and ISI but apart from that frankly, the little dirt that it does manage to sprinkle might as well be common sense for any Pakistani; ISI threatened a poor family to accept the blood money? Asif Ali Zardari is spineless? Right. The significance, however, is that these claims are being made by a former CIA operative, which is bound to start debates in Pakistan. But if you are solely buying the book for that, you are better off just reading a digestion on an online publication (there are more and more articles popping up every day).
At its core, the book is a human story about the man behind the diplomatic crisis, how he felt during these moments and what he is all about as a person. It is an attempt at humanizing Raymond Davis as a person rather than a ‘footnote’, something which he implies in the end by admitting his annoyance of his name being permanently tied to this incident forever. Don’t expect much else. And that is okay. The writing is fine and some moments at the start of the novel are genuinely exciting that they may as well be lifted out of a proper spy novel. This is much of an autobiography of the man rather than commentary on the incident and I think it decent job of painting Raymond Davis as a person.
Davis tries to appear honest in his narration, but the novel still leaves questions unanswered, such as what was he exactly doing in Pakistan (according to him he was a private defense contractor)? The vague explanation that he was ‘preserving American interests overseas’ does little to satisfy that. The narration didn’t make me feel like I could take Davis on his word, or that this is the fullest picture. Ironically, he got into trouble in the U.S over violence (beat up a guy he thought was 'stealing his parking spot) after his return. Many things in says in the book are in direct contradiction with fact-reporting by news organizations like the NY Times.
The self-righteous tone can be off-putting at places and some things in the middle of the novel were pure ‘Murica groan moments (unless you’re American, of course) while other times it was more subtle. While the narration is balanced, at others I kind of felt alienated from the narration as a person who doesn’t place faith in American foreign policy or its consequences. It was pretty annoying how the author just brushes off all responsibility for the deaths of four people, two of them completely innocent, as a direct consequence of his actions.
In conclusion, this book will be very interesting to you if you were alive during the Raymond Davis media storm in Pakistan as it literally gives you the other side of the story. Apart from that, it is an ok non-fic ‘spy’ book of sorts and tells a decent story. You’re probably not missing much by skipping it.
The most interesting thing about this book is going to be the storm it will start in Pakistan regarding the role of the military in the release of Davis. Ironically, no matter how hard he tries, Raymond Davis will forever to tied to Pakistani politics.
July 2, 2017
There are a lot of lope holes in the story which do not require a high IQ to be picked. There is nothing new but same old American narrative being restated like Pakistan is a terrorist country, its being ruled by military establishment, politicians are corrupt as hell, people are all the supporters of TTP, and etc.
Davis ended up killing people on the street (even if in self defense as he claimed), and he expected not to be questioned is naive. The book fails to impress as it is rather a bad idea to mock every institution of Pakistan from court, police, laws, ISI, politicians, media and general public, no matter how close to reality, by someone like Davis. He was unable to prove that he was a diplomat and who's exact nature of job is still shady.
Not a surprise that Pakistani judicial system/courts and ISI (military establishment) are targeted the most in this book. If anything, this book has provided quite a few ingredients to cook our favorite conspiracy theories.
Davis ended up killing people on the street (even if in self defense as he claimed), and he expected not to be questioned is naive. The book fails to impress as it is rather a bad idea to mock every institution of Pakistan from court, police, laws, ISI, politicians, media and general public, no matter how close to reality, by someone like Davis. He was unable to prove that he was a diplomat and who's exact nature of job is still shady.
Not a surprise that Pakistani judicial system/courts and ISI (military establishment) are targeted the most in this book. If anything, this book has provided quite a few ingredients to cook our favorite conspiracy theories.
July 1, 2017
From the holy fauji general to political influences from Pakistan's American god fathers.... a poorly written narrative.... the writer wants to make an action movie out of his concocted version of the incidents... well if OBL can be a movie then why not... :P
November 1, 2017
I don't know the author is right or wrong but it discloses the many things between Pak America relationship which a common person doesn't know.
December 18, 2017
How an ordinary American goes free after killings. Our whole system including military top level officials and politicians are just trying to make fool of the public. A depressing reality.
July 15, 2017
Well written and easy to read book . First to clarify that I didn’t read this because of all that hype in media .and believe me all that fuss was just in two or three paragraphs neither was Involvement of some names of high office holder of Pakistan some new revelation. It is a narration of what Raymond Davis went through in Pakistan custody. How he views Pakistani jails and judiciary. Although he hadn’t gone through all that typical treatment (chittars )what our police is capable of.
alongside his story here in Pakistan there is some additional info about his home, back in America, how his family went through this incident. Here I am quoting his ending para which will I think is the most honest and beautiful part of this book
this was biographical part of this book. As far as political aspects are concerned this book is definitely lacking, and writer's version of it. it will confuse you more. If he was a diplomat why US embassy had no record of it and why he was charged with first-degree murder if he did that shooting in self-defense.
alongside his story here in Pakistan there is some additional info about his home, back in America, how his family went through this incident. Here I am quoting his ending para which will I think is the most honest and beautiful part of this book
Other people wanted to call me a hero, but I’ve never thought of myself that way. If I did anything noteworthy during my time in Kot Lakhpat Jail, it was simply surviving without letting the situation get to me too much. I’ve never wanted to exaggerate the importance of my role because, frankly, there’s nothing beautiful about war. While being interviewed, some military guys like to brag about having put a red dot between someone’s eyes and watching him go down. I’m not one of those guys. War has claimed the lives of too many people I’ve known and loved to make me ever want to glorify it. War kept me away from my family for far too long. And war eventually led to the dissolution of my marriage. Two years after the incident in Lahore, Rebecca and I agreed to an amicable, and yet still shocking and sad divorce. While all the time I’d spent working overseas had helped us pay our bills, it had also destroyed our relationship. I can’t say it enough: There’s nothing beautiful about war.
this was biographical part of this book. As far as political aspects are concerned this book is definitely lacking, and writer's version of it. it will confuse you more. If he was a diplomat why US embassy had no record of it and why he was charged with first-degree murder if he did that shooting in self-defense.
July 1, 2017
There's a lot to digest, so a detailed review will be shared later. For now, just understand that this is a useless book if you want to understand overall picture of what was going on. Newspapers and stories during trial and after Raymond's release are much more detailed. What this book is useful for is the account of what happened in the jail and during court proceedings, something completely absent from media coverage.
July 5, 2017
Nothing new don't waste your time reading this poorly written Book
Just praising himself and America not a well researched book as he was in custody he failed to tell source of information.
Just praising himself and America not a well researched book as he was in custody he failed to tell source of information.
July 9, 2017
5 stars for exposing the treachery of Pakistan ruler
1 star for managing to go scot free after killing three innocent people.
1 star for managing to go scot free after killing three innocent people.
July 5, 2017
Poorly written narrative. Reads like the script of a bad Hollywood thriller. Better expression would have helped.
May 18, 2017
A brilliant book that has totally changed my mind about the need for and the intentions of security contractors in war zones.
Ray's bravery and dedication shines from this memoir. I'm sure he would brush off any praise and say that he behaved the way anyone in his situation would, but I'm sure many wouldn't.
Having the story told from Rebecca's perspective added a different dimension and it was easy to like both of them and respect their different perspectives.
We in the West spend a lot of time moaning about our police forces or our governments but compared to the Pakistani regime we have nothing to worry about.
I think there is a lot we can learn from Ray's captivity, his use of guided meditation is one of them. I suffer from a condition that leaves me in permanent pain and I have half heartedly tried mediation. Having seen Ray's 'all or nothing' dedication to it, I will be trying it again with a better mindset.
How what happened to Ray affected larger political events and decisions was fascinating. I won't say precisely what as it was a great surprise for me and I don't think it is mentioned in the blurb but it was a great way to put the whole situation into a larger perspective.
Ray's bravery and dedication shines from this memoir. I'm sure he would brush off any praise and say that he behaved the way anyone in his situation would, but I'm sure many wouldn't.
Having the story told from Rebecca's perspective added a different dimension and it was easy to like both of them and respect their different perspectives.
We in the West spend a lot of time moaning about our police forces or our governments but compared to the Pakistani regime we have nothing to worry about.
I think there is a lot we can learn from Ray's captivity, his use of guided meditation is one of them. I suffer from a condition that leaves me in permanent pain and I have half heartedly tried mediation. Having seen Ray's 'all or nothing' dedication to it, I will be trying it again with a better mindset.
How what happened to Ray affected larger political events and decisions was fascinating. I won't say precisely what as it was a great surprise for me and I don't think it is mentioned in the blurb but it was a great way to put the whole situation into a larger perspective.
January 7, 2018
Seeing things from Davis perspective, have been somewhat eye opening, especially when the incident of his imprisonment in Pakistan was so much clouded by public sentiments and anti west news commentary. He made a convincing case of why he did what he did! His narrative and impressions of Pakistan, although seems too political and in-depth at times, for a security contractor appointed in Pakistan since a few months only. It seems too similar to the narrative of the country in the US diplomatic circles' in Pakistan, that it almost seems dictated by them. He poorly struggles to justify incompetence of US embassy's admin and security lapses that turned an incident (that wouldn't have occurred in the first place have they have their admin records and adherence to security policy for staff in order) into a diplomatic chaos between the two countries.
At times, Davis perspective on Pakistan seems confused. He complained a lot about Pakistani Judicial System, the same system which he implied acquitted him in just 49 days for killing three people. He also wrote and whined about the establishment of the country, only to establish that the same agencies helped him in finding a way in the Pakistan's law to get him out of there in just 49 days. Also, according to him, he was never tortured in the Pakistani jail and the officers always speak to him politely. What if an Asian diplomat kill three American citizens in public, how the US police will treat that Asian? I think he should be thankful to Pakistani establishment and administration for going out of their way to close his case in just 49 days, at the cost public outrage against them.
American arrogance can only surpass American arrogance.
At times, Davis perspective on Pakistan seems confused. He complained a lot about Pakistani Judicial System, the same system which he implied acquitted him in just 49 days for killing three people. He also wrote and whined about the establishment of the country, only to establish that the same agencies helped him in finding a way in the Pakistan's law to get him out of there in just 49 days. Also, according to him, he was never tortured in the Pakistani jail and the officers always speak to him politely. What if an Asian diplomat kill three American citizens in public, how the US police will treat that Asian? I think he should be thankful to Pakistani establishment and administration for going out of their way to close his case in just 49 days, at the cost public outrage against them.
American arrogance can only surpass American arrogance.
September 2, 2019
Totally anti-Pakistan and anti-ISI rhetoric. The tone of the book is one of such an arrogant and obnoxious person that I wanted to throw this book right on this person's face, who escaped, despite killing 3 Pakistani civilians in broad daylight, remaining in custody for just 49 days. He has basically ridiculed every institution there is in Pakistan, be it Government, Judicial System, Army, Intelligence Agencies, Police, and even general public for that matter. He wasn't even a US official, nor with any diplomatic mission; yet once he got arrested, the US government pulled all strings to try to prove him a diplomat, to get him out. He mocked the same judiciary who made him go free after just 49 days.
All too often one division of ISI would profess to be working toward one goal, while another one of its divisions would be operating in a manner that seemed in direct opposition to the other’s efforts (Page 48). Turned out Davis knows pretty well the working of ISI, an agency who operates under total secrecy.
The government at that time is totally responsible; as they made the victims' families to accept Blood Money . That's the reason Pakistan falls under the category of third world countries. There's no honor, no rule, no security; everything is worthless, everything is set on sale; you can pay a certain amount, and you can go free even If you have taken lives for no apparent reason. Is there anyone who can deny the orders of these self-proclaimed world leaders?
On one hand, this book is an eye-opener for our bad decisions, too; due to which there's no respect left for us in the world.
All too often one division of ISI would profess to be working toward one goal, while another one of its divisions would be operating in a manner that seemed in direct opposition to the other’s efforts (Page 48). Turned out Davis knows pretty well the working of ISI, an agency who operates under total secrecy.
The government at that time is totally responsible; as they made the victims' families to accept Blood Money . That's the reason Pakistan falls under the category of third world countries. There's no honor, no rule, no security; everything is worthless, everything is set on sale; you can pay a certain amount, and you can go free even If you have taken lives for no apparent reason. Is there anyone who can deny the orders of these self-proclaimed world leaders?
On one hand, this book is an eye-opener for our bad decisions, too; due to which there's no respect left for us in the world.
October 15, 2017
Watching any international news channel one gets an impression that Pakistan is a lawless society with gun totting terrorists roaming the streets and challenge the writ of the state. There is an absolute rule of law in every part of Pakistan except for few areas bordering Afghanistan. Government’s writ is established through civil and military law enforcement agencies.
Whether consciously or otherwise Raymond Davis has tried to create a similar impression about the city of Lahore although it has its fair share of petty crimes of mobile snatching and other street crimes, but the description he has given in the book is far from truth. Lahore is a modern cosmopolitan city with numerous educational institutions medical colleges business schools and some of the state universities which dates back more than 100 years. By deliberately painting a picture of lawless and tribal society Raymond Davis has tried to justify his preemptive action of killing two Pakistani men who according to him tried to kill him and he acted in self defence.
We would not know the real story behind the killing as two men (assailants) died on the spot. Raymond Davis tried to hide behind diplomatic immunity in Pakistan although nobody from US embassy or he himself could produce documentary evidence to establish this fact, neither he could corroborate his story while being investigated by the Department of Justice after his return to the USA.
Whatever his assignment was in Pakistan he was treated fairly by the law enforcement agencies and criminal justice system and eventually was released through an act of Shariah law. He was helped out of the country by cohort in Pakistani establishment and some elements of the Government of the time. Then there are people like Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood who preferred to resign from his post in protest and others like the deputy public prosecutor who acted conscientiously.
Raymond was very lucky to be out of jail in a matter of just 49 days, at the end he was in friendly country like Pakistan where the government of the time and its subordinate agencies helped him out of the country as a good will gesture.
I read the book to know his side of the story as he claimed in the introduction but what was “unknown unknown “ never made to the public sphere
Whether consciously or otherwise Raymond Davis has tried to create a similar impression about the city of Lahore although it has its fair share of petty crimes of mobile snatching and other street crimes, but the description he has given in the book is far from truth. Lahore is a modern cosmopolitan city with numerous educational institutions medical colleges business schools and some of the state universities which dates back more than 100 years. By deliberately painting a picture of lawless and tribal society Raymond Davis has tried to justify his preemptive action of killing two Pakistani men who according to him tried to kill him and he acted in self defence.
We would not know the real story behind the killing as two men (assailants) died on the spot. Raymond Davis tried to hide behind diplomatic immunity in Pakistan although nobody from US embassy or he himself could produce documentary evidence to establish this fact, neither he could corroborate his story while being investigated by the Department of Justice after his return to the USA.
Whatever his assignment was in Pakistan he was treated fairly by the law enforcement agencies and criminal justice system and eventually was released through an act of Shariah law. He was helped out of the country by cohort in Pakistani establishment and some elements of the Government of the time. Then there are people like Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood who preferred to resign from his post in protest and others like the deputy public prosecutor who acted conscientiously.
Raymond was very lucky to be out of jail in a matter of just 49 days, at the end he was in friendly country like Pakistan where the government of the time and its subordinate agencies helped him out of the country as a good will gesture.
I read the book to know his side of the story as he claimed in the introduction but what was “unknown unknown “ never made to the public sphere
July 1, 2017
A memoir from Raymond Davis, an US security contractor in Pakistan. The incident got everyone's attention back in the days. there was quite a frenzy back then. And of course so many conspiracy theories too.
One has to read the memoir to understand that despite all the frenzy, conspiracy theories and the loss of three lives at the hands of Mr Davis there was another life at stake too, at least in the author's mind, His. For all the pains and sufferings of families of the deceased there was pain and agony to the family of Mr Davis as well.
The chapters describing the situation at home helps the reader to understand the pain and uncertainty family goes through in such a situation.
The author's little notes describing his inner feelings and concerns brings the reader from the big canvas to the basic truth that it's natural for every life to self preserve itself. That a simple plain phenomenon such as that can turn things into international diplomatic crisis is the world that we live in.
it's an important read to see our world from the eyes of those foreigners daily living in it for some purpose. There are just too many apprehensions out of nothing but there are and this writing may help to quell them at some point.
This is a one sided point of view of the whole situation and there will be those who shall term this as a conspiracy too.
Not very voluminous, has few photographs of the author which helps you see the human being that he wants the reader to see. Not something which shall attract the eye of every reader but shall be exciting to those who knew of this incident. Can be a good partner in a couple of hour flight or train journey, just takes you to another world.
One has to read the memoir to understand that despite all the frenzy, conspiracy theories and the loss of three lives at the hands of Mr Davis there was another life at stake too, at least in the author's mind, His. For all the pains and sufferings of families of the deceased there was pain and agony to the family of Mr Davis as well.
The chapters describing the situation at home helps the reader to understand the pain and uncertainty family goes through in such a situation.
The author's little notes describing his inner feelings and concerns brings the reader from the big canvas to the basic truth that it's natural for every life to self preserve itself. That a simple plain phenomenon such as that can turn things into international diplomatic crisis is the world that we live in.
it's an important read to see our world from the eyes of those foreigners daily living in it for some purpose. There are just too many apprehensions out of nothing but there are and this writing may help to quell them at some point.
This is a one sided point of view of the whole situation and there will be those who shall term this as a conspiracy too.
Not very voluminous, has few photographs of the author which helps you see the human being that he wants the reader to see. Not something which shall attract the eye of every reader but shall be exciting to those who knew of this incident. Can be a good partner in a couple of hour flight or train journey, just takes you to another world.
July 3, 2017
Just finished. One thing Raymond Davis got right in this book is Pakistanis love conspiracy theories and propoganda. Looks like that's all everyone is doing since the release of the book.
You read through it and you'll feel as if he is some hollywood hero (could've used Hans Zimmer's background music while reading this). Actually there is much room for a movie adaptation as well :P
Not recommended. Although do read it if you are a fan of thriller fiction or a conspiracy theorist otherwise the content is pretty weak or atleast it didn't impress me but as Ray Davis wrote about Pakistan's love for conspiracy theories, hence, the notoriety.
You read through it and you'll feel as if he is some hollywood hero (could've used Hans Zimmer's background music while reading this). Actually there is much room for a movie adaptation as well :P
Not recommended. Although do read it if you are a fan of thriller fiction or a conspiracy theorist otherwise the content is pretty weak or atleast it didn't impress me but as Ray Davis wrote about Pakistan's love for conspiracy theories, hence, the notoriety.
February 3, 2022
Sounds more like a white guy narrating some Rambo-Esque, detective novel. I doubt the narration, and so the facts
July 4, 2017
Loved this book, one of those rare books that you keep on reading without a break.
I was expecting a dull self praising monotonous account, but I was amazed to see the variety of topics it touched along the way. From personal life, training and events leading up to incarceration this book also touches the topic of arab spring, Islamabad embassy arson and many incidents involving CIA around the world, US Aid, US-Pak relationship, Pakistan's judicial system, Power struggle between Pakistani Govt and Agencies.
Must read book for Pakistanis.
I was expecting a dull self praising monotonous account, but I was amazed to see the variety of topics it touched along the way. From personal life, training and events leading up to incarceration this book also touches the topic of arab spring, Islamabad embassy arson and many incidents involving CIA around the world, US Aid, US-Pak relationship, Pakistan's judicial system, Power struggle between Pakistani Govt and Agencies.
Must read book for Pakistanis.
August 7, 2017
To entirely believe what Davis stated in the book wouldn't be a very wise thing to do - it's one part of the whole picture. This is just another attempt to show the American muscle to the world. Davis has pictured Pakistan as if there isn't anything right about the country: the government, military, intelligence, judiciary, people - everything and everyone is bad.
August 16, 2019
Raymond Davis worked as a private Contractor for the American Government, who happened to be held captive in Lahore, Pakistan, for murdering two 'innocent' civilians. This book is his first-hand account of his ordeal in captivity.
The incident happened right in the middle of a busy street of Lahore, where Raymond was held at a gunpoint by one of the before-mentioned civilians. To counter the gunshot, he pulled out his own and shot down the two men.
I don't want to reveal much of what is written in the book, as otherwise, any of you who would like to read, would not feel much engaged. The write-up is gripping and has every ingredient of being made into a movie. I remember watching Ben Affleck's 'Argo', which again was based on true events and was an absolute ripper.
Do give it a read to try get a sense of lawlessness, loopholes and above all the games people play in the name of International Relations. 📚
The incident happened right in the middle of a busy street of Lahore, where Raymond was held at a gunpoint by one of the before-mentioned civilians. To counter the gunshot, he pulled out his own and shot down the two men.
I don't want to reveal much of what is written in the book, as otherwise, any of you who would like to read, would not feel much engaged. The write-up is gripping and has every ingredient of being made into a movie. I remember watching Ben Affleck's 'Argo', which again was based on true events and was an absolute ripper.
Do give it a read to try get a sense of lawlessness, loopholes and above all the games people play in the name of International Relations. 📚
July 4, 2017
The Ray Davis memoir, is as the narrator describes of the perception; would remain a foot note in the history of Pakistan and U.S. relations.
The undertones of racist rhetoric in language and nationalism that advocates protecting the American Dream by imperialising nations with military interventions and foreign aids, dismantling the politicians running on a democratic platform does little to justify the overkill of petty thieves who had decided to rob Davis on an unfortunate day.
The memoir does bring forth Pakistan's fascination with conspiracy theories and the constant state of paranoia the country is under siege of in past three decades. The result of this can either result in heightened nationalism amongst Pakistanis that would further strain the Pakistan-U.S. relations or amendments to the Pakistani judicial system that maintains a lack of transparency and record keeping.
The purpose of the memoir was to clear up the assumptions one may have had about Davis and his work in Pakistan which allowed the reader to be introspective towards Davis' reality of the incident but the cost of war on terror, war directed towards the abstract emotion caused from 9/11 rather then the terrorists; was not directly burnt by Davis and Americans. The cost of war on terror has victimised countless innocent families in Pakistan and Afghanistan only because the worth of their lives is perhaps less then the cost of American lives?
The undertones of arrogance over the American judicial system when compared to Pakistani judicial system are highlighted all across the book despite Davis's ignorant knowledge and attitude towards the country.
The memoir's narrative finds itself by using nationalism for its own benefit only yet despises the use of nationalism with the opposing country's use of such.
A decently written book, this memoir is worth a read for anyone interested in the key events that have strained the Pakistan - U.S. relations.
The undertones of racist rhetoric in language and nationalism that advocates protecting the American Dream by imperialising nations with military interventions and foreign aids, dismantling the politicians running on a democratic platform does little to justify the overkill of petty thieves who had decided to rob Davis on an unfortunate day.
The memoir does bring forth Pakistan's fascination with conspiracy theories and the constant state of paranoia the country is under siege of in past three decades. The result of this can either result in heightened nationalism amongst Pakistanis that would further strain the Pakistan-U.S. relations or amendments to the Pakistani judicial system that maintains a lack of transparency and record keeping.
The purpose of the memoir was to clear up the assumptions one may have had about Davis and his work in Pakistan which allowed the reader to be introspective towards Davis' reality of the incident but the cost of war on terror, war directed towards the abstract emotion caused from 9/11 rather then the terrorists; was not directly burnt by Davis and Americans. The cost of war on terror has victimised countless innocent families in Pakistan and Afghanistan only because the worth of their lives is perhaps less then the cost of American lives?
The undertones of arrogance over the American judicial system when compared to Pakistani judicial system are highlighted all across the book despite Davis's ignorant knowledge and attitude towards the country.
The memoir's narrative finds itself by using nationalism for its own benefit only yet despises the use of nationalism with the opposing country's use of such.
A decently written book, this memoir is worth a read for anyone interested in the key events that have strained the Pakistan - U.S. relations.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 16, 2018
Book was simple and easy to read. Finished in just a day with one or two breaks. Enjoyed the spoiled narrative of Raymond Davis. He almost spoiled every historical event related to Pakistan. He was so much biased and presented Pakistan a state where Terrorist organizations are roaming freely with public support. Additionally, there are a lot of loop holes which were clearly visible. He dragged ISI through mud on a lot of pages, truth is far away from this book. Recommended book if you're interested in knowing the American perspective on Raymond Davis incident. Otherwise it's a crap.
December 29, 2017
Step by step account of the Raymond Davis affair in 2011 and the entire story around how the Pakistanis let Raymond leave the country a man charged of killing 2 people. The book coming out 6 years after the incident when the relationship of Pak US had dipped might be a mere propaganda tool but the inner analysis on the characters and incidents seems believable.
Much is said about the democratic values of USA but it stops being democratic ones it leaves it shores.
Much is said about the democratic values of USA but it stops being democratic ones it leaves it shores.
March 25, 2018
The book is written well. But somewhere we get a feeling that it’s not a tell all book when it comes to Ray’s work profile in Pakistan. For all the blame he lays on Pakistan legal process and the system, it’s the same Pakistani process of shariah law that bails him out. Had it been the standard judiciary norm, this man would have been rotting in prison. Can’t get over that American cockiness he displays while he was at jail.
December 4, 2017
I have not read this much crap earlier. Disgusting and blatant attempt to humanize a cold blooded murderer, almost making him victim instead. I am sure Hollywood will end up craving a hero out of him soon.
Nevertheless, it also shows that how our state & its institutions can be manipulated at highest level and shameless use of religion for vested interests.
Nevertheless, it also shows that how our state & its institutions can be manipulated at highest level and shameless use of religion for vested interests.
July 6, 2017
If you’re as obsessed with foreign affairs, the continuing wars in the Middle East, Afghanistan, and the “war on terror” more generally as I am, then you might just remember the name Raymond Davis. In January 2011, he was involved in a shootout on the streets of Lahore which left two Pakistani men dead in the road. A contractor with the US embassy, his car was soon surrounded by a mob and he summoned help. A 4x4 driven by two other contractors on the way to rescue him collided with a motorcyclist, leaving another Pakistani dead. The 4x4 withdrew and Davis was arrested. The result? A diplomatic crisis with Davis held in a Pakistani prison for almost three months.
There has been a lot written about Raymond Davis in the years since. As well as various newspaper articles, he features in two well-received books written by highly respected journalists: The Way of the Knife, by Mark Mazetti, and Dirty Wars, by Jeremy Scahill. Both these titles examine the CIA and Pentagon’s involvement in paramilitary action post 9-11. The consensus in all this work – the articles, the books - is that Davis was a CIA paramilitary officer, either directly employed by the CIA, or via a Private Military Corporation, and that his role was either intelligence gathering, or perhaps, the targeting of militants for assassination.
Davis rejects those assertions in The Contractor, claiming that he was employed simply as a bodyguard, a personal protection officer for diplomats and US State Department officials. In fact, he expresses great anger at the allegations made in the US press, saying that while he can understand the Pakistani media repeating such fabrications, the US media’s willingness to repeat them without any evidence while he was still in detention endangered his life.
Unfortunately, Davis does little to rebut the picture painted of him so far, as The Contractor focuses almost entirely on his time in detention. With a sub-heading that reads: “How I landed in a Pakistani prison and ignited a diplomatic crisis”, this perhaps should not have come as a surprise. But, I thought and hoped that there might be some context. Don’t get me wrong, The Contractor is a good book; it’s well written and gives a good insight into both the conditions he was held in and what it’s like to find oneself suddenly helpless, at the mercy of a foreign judicial system, at the centre of diplomatic and media storms.
But I couldn’t help but find myself intrigued by the few hints he did give as to his life before. For example, he tells the story of how he was on Hamid Karzai’s protection detail when they rolled into the compound of an Afghan warlord only to find themselves in a Mexican standoff with the Warlord’s men. It’s a great anecdote and made me wonder what other tales he has to tell. Perhaps Davis is holding them back for another book? If so, great, I will read that also. The problem is that until that is published, there is so little in The Contractor about what he was doing in Pakistan on the fateful day of the shootout that led to his gaoling, that it is inevitable the vacuum will be filled with speculation. Perhaps baseless speculation, but speculation nonetheless.
There has been a lot written about Raymond Davis in the years since. As well as various newspaper articles, he features in two well-received books written by highly respected journalists: The Way of the Knife, by Mark Mazetti, and Dirty Wars, by Jeremy Scahill. Both these titles examine the CIA and Pentagon’s involvement in paramilitary action post 9-11. The consensus in all this work – the articles, the books - is that Davis was a CIA paramilitary officer, either directly employed by the CIA, or via a Private Military Corporation, and that his role was either intelligence gathering, or perhaps, the targeting of militants for assassination.
Davis rejects those assertions in The Contractor, claiming that he was employed simply as a bodyguard, a personal protection officer for diplomats and US State Department officials. In fact, he expresses great anger at the allegations made in the US press, saying that while he can understand the Pakistani media repeating such fabrications, the US media’s willingness to repeat them without any evidence while he was still in detention endangered his life.
Unfortunately, Davis does little to rebut the picture painted of him so far, as The Contractor focuses almost entirely on his time in detention. With a sub-heading that reads: “How I landed in a Pakistani prison and ignited a diplomatic crisis”, this perhaps should not have come as a surprise. But, I thought and hoped that there might be some context. Don’t get me wrong, The Contractor is a good book; it’s well written and gives a good insight into both the conditions he was held in and what it’s like to find oneself suddenly helpless, at the mercy of a foreign judicial system, at the centre of diplomatic and media storms.
But I couldn’t help but find myself intrigued by the few hints he did give as to his life before. For example, he tells the story of how he was on Hamid Karzai’s protection detail when they rolled into the compound of an Afghan warlord only to find themselves in a Mexican standoff with the Warlord’s men. It’s a great anecdote and made me wonder what other tales he has to tell. Perhaps Davis is holding them back for another book? If so, great, I will read that also. The problem is that until that is published, there is so little in The Contractor about what he was doing in Pakistan on the fateful day of the shootout that led to his gaoling, that it is inevitable the vacuum will be filled with speculation. Perhaps baseless speculation, but speculation nonetheless.
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